Mont Blanc is enthroned majestically amidst the highest peaks of the Alps. To hike around this massif, you will be venturing onto one of the most classic long-distance trails in Europe. This journey leads through three countries and shows the most spectacular peaks of Europe at close range. Experience mighty glaciers that glitter in the sun and quiet mountain lakes lying dreamlike in meadows carpeted with flowers. Those who have completed the Tour Mont Blanc know why the Alps have such exquisite appeal – there is hardly any walking trail in the mountains that is more beautiful than this one. A feature of this hike is the comfortable accommodation in 3* hotels and guest houses with luggage transfers in between.

The little town Martigny lies in an idyllic spot close to the Rhone River.

Day 2 Martigny- Argentière

Your first hiking day starts by climbing the Col de Balme (2191 m) Pass, where you get your first fantastic views of Mont Blanc and the Chamonix valley. Descend into the grassy Sattel before walking over the summit of Aiguillette des Posettes, through rocky terrain with huge panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers. It’s a steep descent then along a mountain stream.15 kms - á 1000 m - 1200 m â 900 - 1100 m. Hiking time approx. 4.5 - 5 h

Day 3 Argentière – Chamonix

Today is the most spectacular leg of the tour. On well-secured ladders, you will climb steep rocks to the light-blue mountain lake, Lac Blanc. Then walk the great alpine path across the “Grand Balcon” along the mountain slope and through blueberry fields to Plan Praz, at 2,000m. Here you can take the cable car and glide down to the legendary mountaineering town of Chamonix. 14 kms - á 1050 m - 1300 m â 350 - 600 m. Hiking time approx. 4.5 - 5.5 h

Day 4: Chamonix – Les Houches

Ride the cable car to climb up 2000 m then climb the impressive boulders of the peak of Brévent. The panorama platform at the top is known as the “best lookout post on Mont Blanc”. The hiking trail passes the bizarre shaped mountain lake, Lac du Brévent and descends to the Bel-Lachat shelter. After a rest resume the steep climb, past the Alpen-Wildpark Merlet, through the forest and into the Arve River valley. 12 kms - á 500 m â 1500 m. Hiking time approx. 5 h

Day 5: Les Houches – Les Contamines

Experience the famous “Mont Blanc tram” and walk along its tracks for a while. The alpine path guides you to a suspension bridge crossing the glacial stream. Hike through mountain meadows to the Col de Tricot (2120 m) pass and climb down to the Miage huts. Continue climbing to reach a rest stop at Truc-Alpe before the final leg to Les Contamines in the Montjoie valley, which is famous for its delicious cheeses. 10 - 18 kms - á 550 m - 1350 m â 1150 m. Hiking time approx. 4 - 7 h

Day 6: Les Contamines – Les Chapieux - Bourg Saint-Maurice

Today’s path passes the southernmost point of Mont Blanc. Walk leisurely along the river to the Baroque pilgrimage church of Notre Dame de la Gorge, from where the long climb to the top of the passes starts on a rocky alpine path from Col du Bonhomme (2329 m) to pass of Col de la Croix du Bonhomme (2450 m). The last descent across alpine pastures and mountain streams leads to Vallée des Glaciers (valley of glaciers). 17 km - á 1300 m â 900 m. Hiking time approx. 6.5 h

Follow the Dranse River past high mountain walls through the valley, forests and meadows and past small traditional mountain villages with their typical stone houses. Later the Murmeltierweg (groundhog route) takes you up to the mountain location of Champex. Details: approx. 15 km | á 450 m â 600 m, Hiking time: approx. 4 h

Day 11 Champex – Martigny

Beautiful forest and meadow paths take you down to Alpe am Plan de l´Au, where a long ascent begins to the higher pastures. You climb up to the Bovine Lodge offering huge views of the Rhone valley and bizarre shaped rocky peaks. Descend to Trient, famous for its rose-pink church and impressive glaciers. Details: approx. 15 km | á 700 m â 900 m, Hiking time: approx. 5 h